Their attendants numbered half a dozen men, among them
Felix and Sagaris, and two mules laden with packs came in the rear.
Earthworks and rough buildings of military purpose, again recalling
the twelve months' blockade, presently appeared; churches and
oratories told them they were passing the sacred ground of the
catacombs; then they crossed the little Almo, rode at a trot along a
hollow way, and saw before them the Appian Gate. Only a couple of
soldiers were on guard; these took a careless view of the
travellers, and let them pass without speaking.
Marcian rode up to his friend's side, and spoke softly.
'You have promised to be advised by me.'
Basil answered only with a dull nod.
'I will see her to-day,' continued the other, 'and will bring you
the news before I sleep.'
'Do so.'
No more words passed between them. On their left hand they saw the
Thermae of Caracalla, their external magnificence scarce touched by
decay, but waterless, desolate; in front rose the Caelian, covered
with edifices, many in ruin, and with neglected or altogether wild
gardens; the road along which they went was almost as silent as that
without the walls.
Pages:
168
169
170
171
172
173
174
175
176
177
178
179
180
181
182
183
184
185
186
187
188
189
190
191
192